Armed Attack on Escorted Buses in Bawku: Mamprusi Warn of Repercussions
On Monday, December 23, at approximately 6:00 pm, buses under heavy military escort transporting passengers into Bawku came under a hit-and-run attack near the Bawku Senior High School. The assault was reportedly carried out by armed Kusasi militants, who opened fire on the convoy, targeting the commercial buses.
The attack resulted in injuries to several passengers and damage to a military armored vehicle. According to eyewitness accounts, the armed militants fled the scene after the assault. This act of aggression has raised concerns about security in the region as tensions between the Mamprusi and Kusasi continue to escalate.
The timing of the attack has been particularly alarming, with the Kusasi Samanpiid Festival, a major cultural event, scheduled for December 28. Kusasi people from across the country are expected to travel to the region via the Tamale-Walewale-Bolgatanga highway for the festivities. The Mamprusi have expressed bewilderment at the Kusasi’s actions, questioning the rationale behind targeting travelers at a time when heightened movements into the region are anticipated.
Media and Authorities Criticized for Inaction
The Mamprusi community has criticized the Ghana Police Service and the media for failing to address or report on the incident. They allege a lack of accountability and transparency, arguing that such silence could exacerbate tensions in an already volatile area.
"We are not seeking sympathy from anyone,” stated a representative of the Mamprusi community, “but the Kusasi must understand that every action has a reaction. The repercussions of their actions may extend beyond their community and affect others in the Upper East Region."
Call for Restraint and Caution
In light of the escalating tensions, the Mamprusi have issued a warning to the Kusasi and a call to the various tribes in the Upper East Region to join voices in urging the Kusasi to cease attacks on travelers. They also noted a shift in travel patterns among Kusasi people, who are reportedly opting for routes via Tamale-Paga and Tamale-Navrongo to reach Bolgatanga, likely in an attempt to avoid confrontations on the Bawku routes.
"We urge all tribes to call the Kusasi to order before the situation spirals out of control. Such hostilities do not only affect the Kusasi but also innocent individuals traveling through or residing in the region," the statement added.
Conclusion
The incident underscores the fragile nature of peace in the Bawku area, where tensions have simmered for years. With the Samanpiid Festival approaching, stakeholders, including security agencies, traditional leaders, and political authorities, must prioritize de-escalation and ensure the safety of all residents and travelers.
The Mamprusi have reiterated their readiness to defend themselves if provoked further but have emphasized the need for a collective effort to prevent violence. It remains critical for the Ghana Police Service and other relevant agencies to investigate the incident and hold perpetrators accountable to restore confidence in the region's security.
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